Generally the basses are the only string instrument included in the standard instrumentation of the concert band. The string bass (or double bass) can be difficult to hear in a large band setting, but can be easily amplified with a wide variety of pickups which are easy to install. The electric bass, when used carefully, will add a fantastic layer of sound to the low end of the concert band. The use of basses in concert band extends an opportunity for musical learning to student players "legitimizing" an instrument commonly used in jazz, rock, and garage bands.
After a teacher's music reading session, a colleague once said, "I think every band should have an electric bass."
The electric bass sound, when leashed and adjusted properly, can add a fantastic foundation to a concert band. Although the use of electric bass in concert band is frowned upon by traditionalists, it is is a very motivational music learning tool when taught properly. I always ask my private students if they are playing in their school concert band. If they are not, I encourage them to do so. In the column to the right are a few tips for using an electric bass with your concert band.
Beginning Bass Lesson with Russ Rodgers
Tips:
Concert Band
Electric Bass
+ Learn the "bass"ics yourself! It's all "bass"ed on four chromatic scales.
+ Begin lessons using a traditional band method book so students feel as if they are a part of the band.
+ I recommend at least five or six lessons from a professional bass instructor.
+ Include the bass player in your group lesson schedule.
+ Keep volume levels low, one bass should equal the volume of one tuba (unless more is necessary).
+ Focus on control of the sound and musicality, just like any other instrument.
+ String basses can be amplified too!
Lyric Opera of Chicago and Grant Park Symphony bassist Andrew Anderson teaches concepts, ideas, and techniques for this double bass in this multi-part series. The entire series is great! Look them up on YouTube!
Basses In The Band?
Generally the basses are the only string instrument included in the standard instrumentation of the concert band. The string bass (or double bass) can be difficult to hear in a large band setting, but can be easily amplified with a wide variety of pickups which are easy to install. The electric bass, when used carefully, will add a fantastic layer of sound to the low end of the concert band. The use of basses in concert band extends an opportunity for musical learning to student players "legitimizing" an instrument commonly used in jazz, rock, and garage bands.
The electric bass sound, when leashed and adjusted properly, can add a fantastic foundation to a concert band. Although the use of electric bass in concert band is frowned upon by traditionalists, it is is a very motivational music learning tool when taught properly. I always ask my private students if they are playing in their school concert band. If they are not, I encourage them to do so. In the column to the right are a few tips for using an electric bass with your concert band.
Beginning Bass Lesson with Russ Rodgers
Tips:
Concert Band
Electric Bass
+ Learn the "bass"ics yourself! It's all "bass"ed on four chromatic scales.+ Begin lessons using a traditional band method book so students feel as if they are a part of the band.
+ I recommend at least five or six lessons from a professional bass instructor.
+ Include the bass player in your group lesson schedule.
+ Keep volume levels low, one bass should equal the volume of one tuba (unless more is necessary).
+ Focus on control of the sound and musicality, just like any other instrument.
+ String basses can be amplified too!
The Real Bass!
Christian McBride plays an awesome jazz solo on the double bass during the Onrette Coleman tune "Turnaround"!
Joshua Redman is playing sax, Pat Metheny, guitar and the drummer is Brian Blade.
Health & Fitness for The Working Bassist
No Treble is pleased to present this series on bass player health, written by Dr. Randall Kertz and brought to you by Ansir Music.